Last Minute St. Paddy’s Day Plans for Chicago’s Best Day
The Perch
If you thought Christmas was a popular holiday in the Windy City… you clearly haven’t done St. Patrick's Day yet. Legendary parties and bar crawls, the Chicago River being dyed green, and then green beers galore, this holiday is one for the ages. Check out our list of the hottest spots to spend this year's St. Patty’s Day if you’re still looking for a last minute party…
Radio Room {400 North State Street, Chicago; 312.706.5228}
Steps from the famous green river that comes only once a year, Radio Room is right at the center of all the St. Patty’s Day action. Their annual party is already sold out, but you can still come celebrate when the doors open to the public after 11:30AM. It’s a perfect stop on any River North bar crawl or place for a post-river drink.
The Kitchen American Bistro {316 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.836.1300}
One of the simple pleasures about living in Chicago during this Irish holiday is that you get to see the river dying. This year, The Kitchen is making the event even more enjoyable, all day long. Skip the craziness of the morning and come for afternoon drinks or an early dinner to take in the beauty of our city on its favorite day.
Pizzeria Portofino {317 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.900.9018}
Want a close up view of the green river? Get your seat at Pizzeria Portofino, located directly on the Chicago riverfront. Kick off St. Patty’s Day at 8AM with signature cocktails, passed appetizers, and an assorted pizza station. General admission tickets include great food and drinks, a live DJ and a top notch view of the Chicago River. Cheers to that!
The Perch {1932 West Division Street, Chicago; 773.846.2739}
If you’re tired of the same old bar crawls, just spend your St. Patrick's Day eating amazing food and drinking great beer at The Perch. Choose from menu items like Corned Beef, Iron Skillet Cornbread, Beer Braised Short Ribs and Peanut Butter Pie made with a chocolate cookie crust, whipped cream and salted peanuts, and drink beer from all over the world. On St. Patty’s Day weekend, The Perch is also launching a special stout in celebration.
The Dearborn {145 North Dearborn Street, Chicago; 312.384.1242}
Given that the owners of The Dearborn are from Ireland, you know you’ll be celebrating the way the Irish do when you visit them. This beloved spot in the heart of the city is offering up food and drink specials, starting on March 11 and continuing until St. Patrick’s Day. Food specials include All Day Irish Breakfast, Dearborn’s Fish and Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, and Shamrock Cookies, as well as the special St. Patty’s Day cocktail “Maid in Chicago” made with Powers Gold Label Irish Whiskey, St. Germain, Red Belly CBD Honey, cucumber and lemon.
Recess {838 West Kinzie Street, Chicago; 312.801.1181}
St. Patrick’s Day is basically like all the fun of mid-day recess when you were a kid, so it just makes sense to head to Recess to celebrate! Act like a kid, and celebrate the hopefully-soon-arrival of spring with St. Patty’s Day specials like Reuben Rangoons, Corned Beef & Cabbage Pave, and Sticky Orange Stout Cake. You won’t ever want to go back to class - erm, we work! - after a day celebrating with them.
Sweet Mandy B's {Multiple Locations}
If you need a treat to bring to your friend's annual St. Patty’s Day extravaganza, check out Sweet Mandy B's. To celebrate, both Mandy B's Locations will have a “Luck of the Irish” giveaway on Friday, March 17. Enter to win a chance at a prize pack if you’re one of the lucky six that bites into an “End of the Rainbow Cupcake” filled with gold buttercream. Other festive treats include Lucky Charms Rice Krispie treats and Shamrock Cupcakes!
Solita Tacos & Margaritas {431 North Wells Street, Chicago; 773.312.4989}
Truth be told, there’s never a bad time for tacos, and St. Patty’s Day is no different. Now through March 19, Solita Tacos is hosting a holiday-themed popup that includes photo opportunities, immersive dining experiences, green beer and specially made Solita cocktails with a green twist, and so much more. You can also choose between Solita's popular Mexican dishes! We love a twist on our holiday favorites.
Swissotel Chicago {323 East Wacker Drive, Chicago; 312.565.0565}
Looking for a vacation, but can’t get out of the city because of your schedule? Book a staycation at the Swissotel located in the New Eastside. Experience luxury to the fullest as you overlook the famous river dyeing. Enjoy in-room dining like Crab Cake Benedict and Steak and Eggs, before bundling up and heading out to the festivities. You can leave knowing you’ll have the comfiest staycation destination to return to after you celebrate the whole day long!
By Madison Freeman | Special Correspondent